Subverting the Shounen Genre
Although the world of anime has been heavily influenced by tropes associated with the shounen genre such as endless battles filled with spectacular displays of power, characters continually striving to achieve ever-increasing levels of power, and overarching stories driven by the pursuit of ultimate riches, there is a striking deviation from the formula appearing in Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. The heart-warming fantasy story eschews the typical shounen framework. Instead of choosing to focus on Frieren’s introspective journey (an elven wizard dealing with existential questions), it delves into the complexities of life and the power of eternal friendship by doing so. Often, the aspects are relegated to the background of traditional shounen narrative formulas.
By distancing itself from the well-worn frenetic action sequences and passionate heroes, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End ventures into a deeper world. It presents a carefully crafted narrative exploring the consequences that occur after the problem subsides and the grand story reaches its climax. While a welcome deviation from the norm, it provides a refreshing innovation to an overused trope. The series differentiates itself by taking the time to examine the psychological and emotional states of its characters as they navigate the fallout of their monumental endeavor.
Traditionally, the shounen genre is characterized by boisterous and passionate protagonists. One need only look at characters like Monkey D. Luffy from One Piece, Izuku Midoriya from My Hero Academia, or Goku from Dragon Ball. While contrast to the archetype is Frieren, a character embodying introspection. Behind her carefree exterior, lies the soul of an elf who has traversed thousands of years. Such a unique perspective on time gives her a sense of detachment, making her appear distant and enigmatic in the eyes of her younger human friends.
Regardless of her flamboyant compatriots whose every action was heralded with boisterous statements and orations filled with arrogance, Frieren’s adventures (unlike those of her compatriots) were not heralded with shouts and boisterous orations filled with arrogance. Rather, it is an introspective sojourn punctuated by her struggle with the inevitable passage of time; it reflects on her existence across vast spans of time, rather than the fleeting moments that constitute the human experience and unwittingly creates a gulf that alienates those around her who are human.
A Different Path to Adventure
In stark contrast to the typical shounen protagonist (a boy filled with an insatiable desire for power and personal growth as embodied by the characters mentioned earlier and the narrative hinges on their endless search for power, heroism, and even heroism), there is Frieren stood in the middle. Having transcended thousands of years, Frieren was at her peak of magical prowess.
Put differently, it is a contemplative exploration delving into the intricate labyrinths of time, the intricate dance of alliances, and the deep questions plaguing human existence. Frieren is a powerful embodiment of the idea of how even after reaching the pinnacle of the traditional hero’s journey, a wealth of experience and profound discovery still awaits. In the present, her quest is a testament to the truth, as she embarks on a mission to collect the remnants of forgotten and seemingly insignificant spells (the ability to conjure flowers to bloom or imbue wine with a touch of bitterness) slowly fading from the world.
In the densely populated world of shounen anime, protagonists usually make their debut as students filled with a thirst for knowledge and the means to realize their desires. Tanjiro Kamado from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan, Naruto Uzumaki from Naruto, and Asta from Black Clover, all serve as illustrious embodiments of such archetypes. Each of the characters embarks on a rigorous training program, their spirits filled with the desire to improve their abilities under the guidance of experienced mentors.
However, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End carves out a different path from such formulated tropes. In itself, Frieren is not a wide-eyed student, but a seasoned wizard with a wealth of experience. When her colleague Heiter begs her to accept his young ward, Fern, as an apprentice, Frieren initially faces resistance to the proposition. Undeterred, Heiter skillfully overcomes his doubts, eventually persuading Frieren to take on the role of Fern’s mentor.
Additionally, the fundamental element driving conventional shounen anime is the quest, embodying the classic hero’s journey from the comfort and familiarity of their known world to the uncertainty and challenges of the unknown. It is exemplified by anime series such as Fairy Tail, Naruto, The Seven Deadly Sins, even Yu Yu Hakusho. The series serves as a portal for viewers, inviting them into a complex narrative centered around protagonists embarking on daring adventures far from the safety of their homes. Such journey motivations vary, as heroes may be driven by a longing to find a fire dragon, reassemble a band of rebel knights accused of treason, or simply a deep quest to find one’s true self. The audience becomes engrossed in the characters’ stories as they venture into uncharted territory. Throughout their expedition, they meet countless individuals, form bonds with companions and encounter enemies. Tirelessly, the heroes strive to achieve their ultimate goal, still far from their reach, but fueling their resolve nonetheless.
However, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End proves to deviate from the established narrative path by starting right at the point where most shounen narratives would traditionally reach their peak: at the end of a triumphant mission. The narrative begins not with the excitement and anticipation of the journey itself, but rather with the return of the heroes to their homeland, after achieving a glorious victory in defeating the Demon King. The main focus of the anime is not the sensation of charming adventure. Rather, it is the deep emotional and existential consequences that emerge after the adventure. By adopting the perspective, it offers viewers a refreshing examination of what it really means to achieve “happily ever after.”
There are opinions about how shounen anime and big, action-packed battles are practically inseparable. From the meticulously choreographed fights in Hunter x Hunter to the electrifying clashes taking place in Bleach, and the confrontations sparked by the defining quirks of Tiger & Bunny, the genre thrives on fight sequences. The fight becomes a key moment in the narrative, serving as the crucible in which power levels are established, abilities develop and mature, and the character itself rises to new heights.
In direct contrast to typical heroic narratives, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End prioritizes contemplative exploration over the spectacle of riveting combat. Although the series does not completely avoid action sequences, the real narrative significance lies in Frieren’s internal development as he confronts the complexities of human emotion and the fleeting nature of human existence. The anime presents an in-depth investigation into the motivations behind the conflict. Rather, it is the goal of an individual’s life after the turmoil of war subsides.
In the established world of anime, rivalries serve as the crucible in which character development is forged. Iconic couples like Yugi and Kaiba from Yu-Gi-Oh!, Ichigo and Uryu from Bleach, Naruto and Sasuke from Naruto, or Goku and Vegeta from Dragon Ball transcend the role of mere plot devices. The rivalry becomes an important thread closely intertwined in the protagonist’s narrative journey. Fueled by a competitive spirit, the relationships push the characters to the limits of their potential; it provides impetus for the narrative and transforms it into a ladder the protagonists must climb to achieve their ultimate aspirations.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End avoids the competitive rivalry tropes that have always defined the shounen genre. In contrast to the archetypal relationship between Naruto and Sasuke, Frieren’s path has no antagonistic obstacles or external pressure to defeat the other. The narrative force driving Frieren forward does not come from external competition. However, it stems from a personal quest for introspection and emotional resolution. Time limitations and obstacles presented by competitors did not affect Frieren. She exists in the narrative as a self-possessed entity, guided by her own will and driven by a deep desire to understand her experiences and find resolution. Her journey is a solo exploration, unencumbered by the expectations of others and focused solely on confronting the existential questions still lingering within herself.
The narrative foundation of most shounen anime is the archetypal struggle for survival against a single main antagonist, often referred to as the big bad. The formidable villain poses a threat so powerful that it endangers the very foundations of the world, pushing it to the brink of destruction. From Dio Brando’s evil machinations in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure to Father’s otherworldly threat in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, the characters serve as focal points of conflict; they push the heroes to the absolute limits of their powers and drive the narrative forward with increasing intensity. The essence of the story always hinges on a dangerous journey to overcome the formidable enemies, a battle that not only puts the protagonist in danger but also endangers the fate of the entire world, hanging by a thread.
Within the framework of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, the role of a conventional antagonist is noticeably absent. The archetypal enemy (the evil embodiment of whose conquest ensures humanity’s continued existence) is briefly discussed, the destruction occurring completely off-screen before the narrative begins. So, the real enemy Frieren faces is time passage itself. Frieren’s friends do not fall victim to the epic confrontations marking their shared past, but rather succumb to the aging process (an enemy even her extraordinary powers become powerless).
In contrast to the measured running, most shounen anime progress at breakneck speed. The breakneck speed manifests in many ways, such as the ultra-fast escalation of battles, the frenzied race against time for the protagonist to master new techniques, and the constant urgency associated with saving the world. While shounen anime are not completely free from filler episodes notorious for deviating significantly from the main storyline, the overall narrative momentum usually remains strong. The fast pace serves to keep the audience engaged and eager to watch more episodes.
A Deliberate Pace
Despite the frenetic pace of many action-oriented anime, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End enjoys the opportunity to slow down and fully appreciate the moment. The anime shows courage in its decision to linger, examines the nuances of interactions between its characters, and investigates the complexity of human emotion and the nature of existence. Rather than pushing the viewer relentlessly from one dangerous confrontation to the next, the anime extends an invitation to reflect on the quiet interludes between moments of escalating drama, thus creating a very different viewing experience.
Indeed, shounen anime engages in cursory exploration of philosophical themes. The themes may include the foundations of justice, the multifaceted concept of heroism, or the mysterious essence of what constitutes humanity itself. However, the interactions are only superficial and function more as a thematic background to the narrative than the main focus. The case in point is anime like One Punch Man and Noragami. Although the series asks big questions to arouse viewers’ intellectual curiosity, it rarely dedicates enough time to investigating the questions to get nuanced yet in-depth answers. In contrast, the narrative momentum shifts rapidly; it propels the audience toward the next action-packed sequence or storyline and leaves philosophical questions unresolved.
By and large, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End goes beyond the boundaries of adventure narrative. Instead, it carefully integrates philosophical themes into the foundation of the story. In depth, the anime delves into fundamental existential questions that have plagued humanity for millennia. Concepts such as the nature of time, the mortal qualities of life and death, and the existence of an afterlife become the primary focus of narrative exploration.
From the start, the series sets the framework of a philosophical journey. The first episode introduces us to Frieren, grappling with her burden of past actions. Her regret for neglecting to cultivate a closer relationship with her fallen colleague, Himmel, becomes a powerful catalyst for her search for introspection. Through Frieren’s introspective struggles, the anime promises a thoughtful and honest exploration of existential themes.
Finding Beauty in the Ordinary
While many shounen anime prioritize spectacle, reveling in grand displays of power and conflict, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End carves a different path. In shounen in general, viewers are bombarded with epic showdowns, shocking betrayals, and pivotal plot twists (narrative elements carefully crafted to inspire wonder and awe). Instead, Frieren finds deep meaning in seemingly insignificant moments of everyday life. The shift in focus is especially sad because of Frieren’s age. After watching thousands of years pass by, one might think she would be jaded by worldly matters. However, it is precisely these fleeting and ordinary experiences that are now most important to the elf.
Even the most seemingly ordinary moments resonate deeply. Imagine Frieren experiencing the sunrise again through her pupillary eyes. Despite being familiar to elves having witnessed countless dawns, the sight took on a new meaning when she shared it with her apprentice. Likewise, observing rare meteor showers becomes an in-depth experience that is very valuable if shared with friends. In fact, making a simple flower crown for the statue of the late Himmel goes beyond the basic actions. The sequences filled with personal meaning carry the greatest emotional weight.
Unlike the usual bombastic battles and apocalyptic threats characteristic of the shounen genre, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End reveals a deeper truth by quietly reflecting on life’s ordinary moments. Instead of grand clashes and epic showdowns, the series delves into the human experience, favoring exploration over confrontation. It is within these moments of introspection and shared connection that the series discovers its true revelation.
Bibliography
- Eisenbeis, R. (2022). Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is the Best Manga I Have Ever Read. Anime News Network.
- Hunt, J. A. (2024). The Quiet Beauty of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Jonah’s Daily Rants.
- Mehanna, A. A. (2023). 10 Ways Frieren Stands Out From The Typical Shonen Anime. CBR.
- Piedra, J. (2024). Anime Review: Sousou No Frieren. The Outerhaven.
